CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

Keratoconus

Keratoconusis a non-inflammatory corneal dystrophy in which the normally dome-shaped cornea bulges outward. Initially this causes what is termed irregular astigmatism, and is observed as a blurring of vision or glare and streaking of lights at night, but if the bulging continues, the cornea becomes progressively thinner and weaker. Early visual symptoms of keratoconus prompt a patient to complain of a reduction in visual quality, which is not completely corrected, even with the use of new glasses. This causes frequent optical visits and changes in prescription – a result of the increasing irregular astigmatic changes underlying the disease, that are causing higher order aberrations which glasses will not correct….Read more

Non-Keratoconus Ectasia

Riboflavin/UVA cross-linking has been successfully used in the treatment of non-keratoconus ectasia, such as pellucid marginal degeneration or keratectasia following LASIK and radial keratotomy….Read more

Stabilisation of Corneoplastic Procedures

Although the corneoplastic effects of intra-corneal ring segment implantation generally remain stable for many years, CXL is being considered as a useful adjunct to the procedure to further stabilise the altered corneal shape. The development of this combination treatment is in its early stages and the optimal time to perform each stage of the treatment has yet to be ascertained….Read more

Infectious Keratitis

Due to its ability to inhibit pathogen growth riboflavin/UVA cross-linking is seen as a promising treatment option for the management of cases of infectious keratitis which are unresponsive to antibiotic therapy, and the clinical studies support this….Read more

Corneal Oedema

Although CXL may not prevent the need for corneal transplantation in conditions involving corneal oedema, it should be noted that the therapy has the potential to significantly improve patient’s visual comfort and extend the time interval for an upcoming corneal transplantation….Read more